Valentino Garavani, the legendary fashion designer known for his contributions to haute couture, was laid to rest in Rome on January 23, 2024. Thousands gathered to pay their respects as his body was placed in state near the iconic Spanish Steps. Known for introducing Italian elegance to French fashion in the 1950s, Valentino’s influence continues to resonate across the industry.
The memorial service took place at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Piazza della Repubblica. An honor guard of carabinieri, dressed in traditional uniforms, flanked the church doors, providing a striking visual homage to the designer’s illustrious career. The carabinieri’s scarlet capes mirrored Valentino’s signature “Fiesta red,” a colour he famously debuted in a 1959 couture show. This hue became a cornerstone of his legacy, signifying luxury and style.
Among the mourners was Giancarlo Giammetti, Valentino’s long-time business partner and former life partner, who played a pivotal role in navigating the designer’s career. Giammetti, along with Valentino’s current partner Bruce Hoeksema, was seen arriving at the service, highlighting the personal connections that defined Valentino’s life.
Also in attendance was Alessandro Michele, the current creative director of Valentino, alongside actress Anne Hathaway. Hathaway, who starred in the film The Devil Wears Prada, developed a close friendship with Valentino, who dressed her for numerous red carpet events. The actress wore a Valentino topcoat, honoring the designer’s enduring influence on her fashion choices.
Valentino’s impact extended beyond clothing; he was instrumental in expanding the brand into fragrances and accessories. His partnership with Giammetti led to the company being sold for a reported $300 million to the Italian conglomerate HdP in 1998. The brand changed hands in subsequent years, culminating in a sale to the Marzotto Group in 2002 for an astounding $3.5 billion in 2007. Currently, Valentino is jointly owned by Qatari investors and the Kering group, which retains an option to acquire full ownership by 2028.
Valentino’s client list read like a who’s who of the fashion world, including icons such as Jacqueline Kennedy, Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, and Julia Roberts. His meticulous attention to detail and penchant for luxury fabrics garnered him a loyal following. Throughout his career, he maintained a close-knit group of seamstresses, many of whom remained with him for decades, underscoring his commitment to craftsmanship.
As mourners reflected on his legacy, even his most notable competitors, like Donatella Versace, opted for understated elegance in their attire, a testament to Valentino’s influence. He was known for his discerning taste and often expressed his disdain for trends that he felt detracted from true elegance. In a candid moment from his 2025 biography, he stated, “I cannot see women destroyed, not well combed or looking strange and stupid.” His commitment to beauty and sophistication will be remembered as a hallmark of his work.
Valentino’s creative legacy continues as Michele prepares to showcase the latest collection at the upcoming Paris Haute Couture fashion week from January 26-29, 2024. The fashion community will undoubtedly carry forward Valentino’s spirit, ensuring that his touch of elegance remains a vital part of the industry.
